PRE & POST CRUISE

PILGRIMAGE DESTINATIONS

CROATIA ISLAND HOPPING CRUISE

Croatia is unique part of Europe, described as the Med as it once was by its tourist board. The charm of its little changed coast line is awash with colour from the clear turquoise waters to white pebble beaches and lush green pines that lean toward the sea – not to mention the lilacs of the wild lavender during summer.

For culture and history, Croatia is also a front runner, brimming with influences of Slavic, Venetian, Italian and Austro-Hungarian empires shown in its architectural landscapes, traditions and cuisine.

Relax on your deluxe vessel and let the captain, his crew and tour manager take care of you. In the mornings you can relax on spacious decks and sunbathe or refresh yourself in the Adriatic Sea. Afternoons and evenings are carefully planned for you to explore Croatia's finest destinations with local experts.

DAY

1

SATURDAY SPLIT (On-board meals – D)

Transfer from Split airport to the Split harbour where your deluxe vessel will be docked. (Check in from 14.00h). After settling in, enjoy a guided tour of the UNESCO world heritage town including an abundance of Roman architecture and the magnificent Diocletian’s Palace, once inhabited by the Roman emperor.

After the tour of Split, return to the ship for a welcome reception and cocktail to enjoy the meet and greet party on board. Overnight in Split

DAY

2

SUNDAY SPLIT - KORČULA (On-board meals B, D)

Early morning departure towards the Korčula Island best known as the birthplace of Marco Polo. Stop for lunch in one of the secluded bays on route. Early afternoon arrival in Korčula followed by a guided walking tour of this enchanting town with fortified walls.

On this Island you can find more legends, tales and monuments than anywhere else while you wander along the herringbone pattern streets.

Korčula has an abundant choice of restaurants so we’ll eat in a selected restaurant on the island this evening. There are also a good choice of bars and clubs for those looking for evening entertainment. Overnight in Korčula

DAY

3

MONDAY KORČULA - MLJET/DUBROVNIK ( On-board meals B,L,D)

We head further south to the Island of Mljet. Take a guided walk to the famous salt lakes in the Mljet National Park and enjoy the boat ride to the St Mary Isle, where you will visit an ancient Benedictine monastery, an old abbey and a Church dating from the 12th Century. There is an option to rent kayaks and bicycles or simply walk and enjoy the nature of the Island.

Return to the ship in time for a freshly prepared lunch followed by departure towards Dubrovnik.

Late afternoon arrival in Dubrovnik, but before we tie the ropes at Gruž harbour the captain will take you for an evening cruise alongside the old city walls while a buffet dinner is served on deck. Enjoy the spectacular views of this magnificent old town. Overnight in Dubrovnik

DAY

4

TUESDAY DUBROVNIK (B)

After breakfast transfer to the old town for the guided walking tour of this medieval Gem that has been part of the set to the famous HBO series ‘Game of Thrones’.

You will have the opportunity to take best pictures of the town of Dubrovnik as we take a cable car ride from the Old Town to Srđ Mountain to enjoy scenic views of the Walls and Elaphiti Islands. Lunch is followed by some free time for shopping in Dubrovnik’s old streets where jewellery and chic clothing brands can be found. For dinner this evening a local fish restaurant is highly recommended for inclusion. An evening walk along the famous walls 1,940m long is a nice way to complete the day. Overnight in Dubrovnik

DAY

5

WEDNESDAY DUBROVNIK - PELJEŠAC PENINSULA (B,L,D)

Morning departure towards the Pelješac peninsula, well known for its excellent wine. Before lunch a short stop at one of the Elaphiti Islands and afternoon arrival to Pelješac peninsula. Today we move inland to explore a rural village on the peninsula followed by a visit to a farm where you can indulge in a typical village party with Croatian delicacies, with local dishes made from their ownproduce. Late transfer back to the ship. Overnight on Pelješac peninsula.

DAY

6

Morning departure towards the jet-set island Hvar. Lunch stop on the small Island of Šćedro followed by a swim stop at the Pakleni Islands.

Hvar is the longest Island in the Adriatic and known for its lavish lavender fields and breath-taking beauty. Upon arrival there will be a short presentation of lavender products followed by a tour of the town of Hvar. One can find many historical landmarks here including the Renaissance cathedral with its original tower, and the oldest community theatre in Europe, founded in 1612.

Hike up to the town fort overlooking the harbour to get some lovely scenic views of your ship and The Pakleni Islands. In the evening we’ll dine in a selected restaurant in Hvar where there is a vibrant atmosphere amongst the bars and cafes that stay open long into the night. Overnight in Hvar

DAY

7

FRIDAY HVAR - BOL / MILNA (B,L,D)

Our final stop will be the Island of Brač and picturesque town of Bol. Walk along the promenade or swim at one of the most famous beaches in Dalmatia – Zlatni Rat - the Golden cape.

This unique beach that juts out into the sea constantly changes shape with the condition of the wind and waves. Bol is a pretty fishermen’s town, turned popular tourist destination.

After lunch on board time at leisure until a suggested afternoon wine tasting in the facilities of one the oldest Dalmatia wine cooperatives (dating 1903).

Early morning departure for Split and on arrival it is time to say goodbye to the crew and all your new friends! Check out by 9.00 am and a private transfer to Split airport or why not choose to extend your stay and head inland towards the Plitvice Lakes and Zagreb, the countries capital.

Why not add a pre or post land stay to your cruise programme – ask us for more details.